179 Prelude In retrospect, this first month of COVID-19 in the Netherlands has shown the need for tremendous concentrated and combined efforts in all aspects of the blood supply. Blood establishments play a crucial role in the treatment of vulnerable patients in society, while having access to healthy blood donors, which create possibilities for further research. Like the opening Dickens quote, this pandemic reveals the paradoxical nature of these times and of human nature. In Sanquin, we have seen the ‘best’ of donor turnout due to the commitment of the Dutch public and our tireless blood collection staff. In the face of uncertainty, we have seen the ‘best’ of our employees as internal collaborations were created and milestones were reached at previously unprecedented levels and speed. This pandemic has sparked innovations, united departments and changed traditional habits for the better. In this epoch of incredulity, strong connections and constant clear communications with governmental and medical institutions, healthcare providers, media and suppliers, continue to be crucial. We now better understand the tremendous value of a well-organized, well-coordinated system on local and national levels to respond adequately in a time like this. As prevalence and mortality increase, so has the flow of new (research) initiatives, reflecting the strength of Sanquin’s multi-disciplinary knowledge institution in playing a decisive role in creating clinical solutions and contributing evidence towards governmental health policy decisions regarding COVID-19. Overall, perhaps the paradoxical nature of this pandemic reveals to us that our response and responsibility of whatever little part we play matters. We acknowledge that our situation is unique and other blood establishments may not be in the same position – we share our experiences to provide glimpses that good and goodwill still happen in these difficult times. We thank the many hands, feet and veins of all those who have given in every way, and we honour your contributions. These words are not simply for us in the Netherlands, but all of our colleagues around the world reading this: ‘Samen, samen sterker’. Together, we are stronger. To end Dicken’s quote, “It was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope.” May this spring still bring you hope.
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